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Pre-Columbian Jamacoaque Platform Figure of a Shaman browse these categories for related items... Directory: Archives: Regional Art: Americas: South American: Pre AD 1000: Item # 575701
Janus Antiquities By Appointment New Jersey (330) 612-3957 Guest Book SOLD |
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Many Jamacoaque shaman figures show shamans actually transforming into creatures like jaguars or birds. Others, like this one, take a more literal view by portraying the shaman in full regalia (ornate headdress, feather shirt, loincloth, and pectoral ornament), including a feline mask. Saunders' "Icons of Power: Feline Symbolism in the Americas" notes that jaguar symbolism is explicitly associated with shamanism. Those who claim some of the jaguar's power (such as through shamanic association) also thereby classify themselves both within and on the margins of human structures of power. Jaguar power, or the concept of power provided by jaguars, can be at the center of human societies in that it is identified with their most cultured ruling elites, while simultaneously marking the limits of human societies in that it represents the most dangerous of natural, external threats.
The Jamacoaque culture of northern coastal Ecuador is one of many poorly-known cultures that persevered in the northern Andes for centuries. Their wealth seems to have been largely derived from fishing, farming, and trade of coastal commodities, such as shells. Despite the fact that they left little noteworthy architecture, the pottery figures from these related cultures have grown in popularity in recent years, largely due to the vibrant coloration and striking motifs that these craftsmen executed. Most noteworthy is the use of a regional variation of the vibrant "Maya Blue" pigment associated with the Late Classic period of Central America. Unfortunately, few English references have focused on the artifacts of this interesting culture, so much is unknown about their practices and beliefs. The best reference available is Valdez, "Amerindian Signs: 5,000 Years of Precolumbian Art in Ecuador" for similar work. AGE: 350 B.C. to 400 A.D. CONDITION: Intact with no repairs and excellent pigmentation somewhat obscured by encrustation across the surface. DIMENSIONS: About 4.25" tall (10.8 cm) |
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